Showing posts with label christian historical fiction. Show all posts
Showing posts with label christian historical fiction. Show all posts
About the Book
Author: Jen Turano
Genre: Historical Fiction
Series: Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies, Book 1
Publisher: Bethany House
Release Date: May 20, 2025
With her father dead, her fortune stolen, and her fiancé casting her aside, Miss Drusilla Merriweather's privileged life has been upended. She is left with only one option: to provide for her family by opening a finishing school in the allegedly haunted castle she's inherited from her eccentric aunt. However, her plan is immediately threatened by unscrupulous developers keen on claiming the coveted estate for themselves, by any means necessary.
Mr. Rhenick Wittenbecker, a dashing architect with a tendency to charm his way out of trouble, is convinced he can protect Drusilla but is challenged by her fierce independence. Yet when strange occurrences--walking suits of armor and unexpected ghostly visitors--arise within castle grounds, Drusilla must decide whether to risk her family's safety and her school on the gallant architect who seems to have found his way into her heart.
In this entrancing series starter, Turano presents a tale of laugh-out-loud adventure, swoon-worthy romance, and delightful mischief in the Gilded Age.
Mr. Rhenick Wittenbecker, a dashing architect with a tendency to charm his way out of trouble, is convinced he can protect Drusilla but is challenged by her fierce independence. Yet when strange occurrences--walking suits of armor and unexpected ghostly visitors--arise within castle grounds, Drusilla must decide whether to risk her family's safety and her school on the gallant architect who seems to have found his way into her heart.
In this entrancing series starter, Turano presents a tale of laugh-out-loud adventure, swoon-worthy romance, and delightful mischief in the Gilded Age.
My Thoughts
You truly cannot go wrong with a Jen Turano book! Immediately your cares will melt away and you know you will get in a great chuckle! I read this outdoors enjoying the sunshine and I am sure that my neighbors and people walking by thought I was crazy when I was reading this. I love this new setting of Chicago, typically we are in New York or Newport but this setting involving a castle was rather nice and quite adventurous, mysterious and overall fun!
Drusilla Merriweather newly disengaged and without any money decides to head to Chicago and open an academy for young ladies to teach them how to be proper and have the etiquette required for high society. All things go array when the criminal underworld wants her house and ghosts seem to be in premises. I loved the characters in the story! To say they are quite eccentric would be an understatement. It is quite hilarious the antics they get into!
The love interest Rhenick Wittenbecker is so adorable! You can't help but fall for him and I am so glad that Drusilla finally sees that throughout the story but boy does she make him work for it!
Seriously, if you enjoy Jen Turano books or books that will make you chuckle in the middle of a quiet moment then this is the book for you!
I received this book for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are my own.
About the Author
Welcome to the Blog Tour for Finding Juniper by Cindy Thomson, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
About the Book
Title: Finding Juniper
Author: Cindy Thomson
Publisher: Emerald Path Press
Release Date: January 2, 2025
Genre: Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction
For Patrick Doyle, the claim that time heals all wounds is a cruel lie.
In 1920, returning from WWI, Paddy finds Ireland creeping toward civil war. Invisible borders separate people, including Paddy and his pregnant girlfriend. With few prospects, Paddy sails to America. However, America is far from the land of opportunity he’d hoped for. And worse, his girl refuses to follow him because of her political involvement.
Thirty years later, Patrick has moved on with his life, building a new family. A letter arrives, suggesting the child he’d assumed died may be alive. Patrick’s American daughter Mardell pushes him to find out what happened to her sister, named Juniper. Patrick anxiously sails to Ireland.
Juniper endured a childhood in institutions, and when she’s released, she moves on without the parents who left her. Operating an apothecary out of an inherited cottage where villagers are slow to trust outsiders, Juniper finally finds a home when her grandmother arrives. Just as she feels comfortable and content, her father shows up at her door, bringing shocking news about her mother.
Finding Juniper invites readers on a journey of confronting the past, healing from old traumas, and redefining what family truly means.
PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub
Excerpt
Patrick
Early April 1950, Golden, Ohio
Patrick stood at the mailbox and examined the envelope in his hand. Addressed to PaddyDoyle and postmarked Ireland. Who back there had anything to say to him after all these years?His mother had been dead for decades. He flipped the letter from one hand to the other. Along-lost relative? A distant cousin, perhaps. Patrick slid his finger under the seal and removedthe paper inside. The handwriting was crude, so unlike the florid script written with a fountainpen on the outside. This was a child’s pencil scrawling. Peering at the words, he had to steadyhimself against the mailbox post. He glanced up and gazed at rows of budding green stalksdotting the cornfield across the way.The one thing. The only thing that could ever make him return to Ireland was written on thepaper. But was it real? Could his child have actually written this?To my Da, whoever you were,You left me. I want you to come back and say why. Why did you go away, Da? Because I amnot a boy? I’m ugly? Too dirty? Too sick? Too poor? I wish you’d come back but you can’t.
Excerpt FromFinding JuniperCindy ThomsonThis material may be protected by copyright.
About the Author
Known for the inspirational Celtic theme employed in most of her books, Cindy Thomson is the author of both fiction and nonfiction. A genealogy enthusiast, she writes from her home in Ohio where she lives with her husband Tom near their three grown sons and their families.
Connect with Cindy by visiting cindyswriting.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.
Tour Giveaway
(1) winner will receive a silver leaf necklace and an e-copy of Finding Juniper!
Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight January 28, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on February 4, 2025. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. Worldwide if Amazon Global Shipping is available. If international winner lives where Amazon Global Shipping is not available, only ebook will be given. Ebook delivered via Bookfunnel. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.
Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.
Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!
About the Book
Author: Kristie Self
Genre: Historical Romance
Series: Ladies of Roderick Glen
Publisher: Independent
Release Date: April 2024
Can two solitary hearts discover that their best chance for happiness lies in working together?
The Honorable Sienna Clarke has spent most of her life defying the expectations placed upon women in society. A scientific scholar at heart, she uses the inheritance she receives from her late father to open a special school for young ladies—one where they will be allowed to study any subject they wish, even those traditionally reserved for men.
Jasper Walker left Roderick Glen in disgrace more than two years ago and hasn’t set foot in the village since. Despite his attempts to change his life for the better, he finds himself once more searching for a way to repair a costly mistake. When his latest error results in deadly circumstances, Jasper reluctantly returns to Roderick Glen, hoping to escape from those who wish him harm. Seeking a way to support himself, he takes a job as caretaker for the school for young ladies that has recently opened in the village.
Sienna isn’t certain what to think of the new caretaker. He is handsome and charming, but also quite mysterious. She can’t shake the feeling he has secrets he’d rather keep buried, but despite her misgivings, she can’t deny her growing attraction to him.
Jasper has no desire to fall in love with anyone, certainly not a headstrong, opinionated headmistress far above his station, but when dangerous threats are made against Sienna and her school, he vows to do whatever he must to protect her and find the person responsible. Can love break through the barrier that surrounds his heart and show him what it means to truly put another person’s needs above his own?
The Honorable Sienna Clarke has spent most of her life defying the expectations placed upon women in society. A scientific scholar at heart, she uses the inheritance she receives from her late father to open a special school for young ladies—one where they will be allowed to study any subject they wish, even those traditionally reserved for men.
Jasper Walker left Roderick Glen in disgrace more than two years ago and hasn’t set foot in the village since. Despite his attempts to change his life for the better, he finds himself once more searching for a way to repair a costly mistake. When his latest error results in deadly circumstances, Jasper reluctantly returns to Roderick Glen, hoping to escape from those who wish him harm. Seeking a way to support himself, he takes a job as caretaker for the school for young ladies that has recently opened in the village.
Sienna isn’t certain what to think of the new caretaker. He is handsome and charming, but also quite mysterious. She can’t shake the feeling he has secrets he’d rather keep buried, but despite her misgivings, she can’t deny her growing attraction to him.
Jasper has no desire to fall in love with anyone, certainly not a headstrong, opinionated headmistress far above his station, but when dangerous threats are made against Sienna and her school, he vows to do whatever he must to protect her and find the person responsible. Can love break through the barrier that surrounds his heart and show him what it means to truly put another person’s needs above his own?
My Thoughts
I love, love returning to the town of Roderick Glen, England and its people. Author Kristie Self has done a great job with this series so far and captivating me and wanting more each time the book comes to an end. So, needless to say I need more from this series!
As always even thought theres a main storyline, this one being about Sienna and Jasper, there are also all these side storylines that are happening at the same time so definitely keeps you engaged. I really enjoyed how Sienna's story blossomed in this book and loved to see the return of Jasper and how he changed throughout the story. Of course it was great to "see" Cece, Victoria and Merry. Cece's storyline continues from the previous books and now we see her in medical school. I would really like more on her story and the good doctor!! Vickie as always was up to her antics although they have toned down a bit as she has matured but boy I am always wondering who will end up to be her love interest because currently its not who I was rooting for!!! Gah!! Dear Merry, as she continues her writing career we see her hopefully finally have lead to someone who will actually publish her works.
Seriously there is so much to unpack and delve into when you read these stories and I highly encourage you to read them from the very beginning to not only get the whole picture but also fall in love with these characters and not be confused if you jump in the middle of it.
Overall I thoroughly enjoyed the story and I can't wait for the next book. I was a bit disappointed at the lighter spiritual content just because her first few books were so rich in it but despite that I really enjoyed these. If you are looking for a new historical fiction series to get hooked into make sure you check this one out!
I received a copy of this book for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
Kristie Self has always had a love for books and has been writing since she was a child. She combines her love of history and romance to write faith-filled love stories with memorable characters and intriguing plots. A banker by day, she spends most of her nights and weekends focused on writing. She enjoys traveling, watching movies, and curling up with a good book. An avid lover of music, she plays several instruments and also teaches piano. She is a graduate of Howard Payne University and lives in Lott, Texas, with her cat, Arlo.
About the Book
Author: Sarah Loudin Thomas
Genre: Historical Fiction
Publisher: Bethany House
Release Date: April 2, 2024
Seven years ago, a hidden betrayal scattered three young friends living in the shadow of Biltmore Estate. Now, when Biltmore Industries master weaver Lorna Blankenship is commissioned to create an original design for Cornelia Vanderbilt's 1924 wedding, she panics knowing she doesn't have the creativity needed. But there's an elusive artisan in the Blue Ridge Mountains who could save her--if only she can find her.
To track the mysterious weaver down, Lorna sees no other way but to seek out the relationships she abandoned in shame. As she pulls at each tangled thread from her old life, Lorna is forced to confront the wounds and regrets of long ago. She'll have to risk the job that shapes her identity as well as the hope of friendship--and love--restored.
In this seamlessly woven historical tale, award-winning Appalachian author Sarah Loudin Thomas delivers a poignant novel of friendship, artistry, restoration, and second chances.
To track the mysterious weaver down, Lorna sees no other way but to seek out the relationships she abandoned in shame. As she pulls at each tangled thread from her old life, Lorna is forced to confront the wounds and regrets of long ago. She'll have to risk the job that shapes her identity as well as the hope of friendship--and love--restored.
In this seamlessly woven historical tale, award-winning Appalachian author Sarah Loudin Thomas delivers a poignant novel of friendship, artistry, restoration, and second chances.
My Thoughts
If you enjoy stories that are set in the Biltmore Estate then you don't want to miss out on this one. The author has delved into the history of those who lived and worked there. It truly captivates you with all the details she provides not only about the workforce but also regarding the Vanderbilts, especially the favored daughter Cornelia.
This is a slower paced story and the timeline does move back and forth without much notice so its a bit hard to decipher but stick with it and I promise you will enjoy it. It did take me a while to get into it but once I did I was a bit hooked. The characters are full of depth and are also very flawed. Some will take some time to truly love but once you do, you will enthralled with them.
Lorna goes through some hard lessons but she does learn throughout the story and with that we see her grow in faith and in turn we see God's forgiveness, restoration and hope. God's timing is truly perfect.
Overall I enjoyed the story and if you enjoy historical fiction you will enjoy this one as well!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
Sarah is the director of Jan Karon’s Mitford Museum in Hudson, NC. She holds a bachelor’s degree in English from Coastal Carolina University and is the author of the acclaimed novels The Right Kind of Fool–winner of the 2021 Selah Book of the Year–and Miracle in a Dry Season–winner of the 2015 Inspy Award. Sarah has also been a finalist for the Christy Award, ACFW Carol Award and the Christian Book of the Year Award. She and her husband live in western North Carolina.
About the Book
Author: Gabrielle Meyer
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
Series: Timeless, Book 2
Publisher: Bethany House
Release Date: May 2, 2023
Maggie inherited a gift from her time-crossing parents that allows her to live three separate lives in 1861, 1941, and 2001. Each night she goes to sleep in one time period and wakes up in another. Until, that is, she turns twenty-one, when she will have to forfeit two of those lives--and everyone she knows in them--forever.
In 1861, Maggie is the daughter of an influential senator at the outbreak of the Civil War, navigating a capital full of Southern spies and wounded soldiers. In 1941, she is a Navy nurse, grappling with her knowledge of the future when she's asked to join a hospital ship being sent to Pearl Harbor. And in 2001, she's a brilliant young medical student, fulfilling her dream of becoming a surgeon, yet unable to use her modern skills in her other paths.
While Maggie has sworn off romance until she makes her final choice, an intriguing man tugs at her heart in each era. The mysterious British gentleman. The prickly, demanding doctor. The charming young congressman. She's drawn to each man in different ways, only complicating the impossible decision she must make, which looms ever closer.
With so much on the line, how can Maggie choose just one life to keep and the rest to lose?
In 1861, Maggie is the daughter of an influential senator at the outbreak of the Civil War, navigating a capital full of Southern spies and wounded soldiers. In 1941, she is a Navy nurse, grappling with her knowledge of the future when she's asked to join a hospital ship being sent to Pearl Harbor. And in 2001, she's a brilliant young medical student, fulfilling her dream of becoming a surgeon, yet unable to use her modern skills in her other paths.
While Maggie has sworn off romance until she makes her final choice, an intriguing man tugs at her heart in each era. The mysterious British gentleman. The prickly, demanding doctor. The charming young congressman. She's drawn to each man in different ways, only complicating the impossible decision she must make, which looms ever closer.
With so much on the line, how can Maggie choose just one life to keep and the rest to lose?
My Thoughts
How in the world can an author keep up with so many intricate details in a story? I have no idea but thank goodness that Gabrielle Meyer can because once again she wrote another book that blew me away!! If you haven’t picked up the first book on this series DO NOT hesitate!! You do not want to miss out on how it all began… let’s dig into this one as much as we can without giving too much away…
In this book we travel to three different timelines with Margaret/Meg/Maggie. Same person, three different timelines that were completely full of history. Each timeline gave you a better sense on who she was as a person and the struggles that she had about the possibility of leaving each of those timelines. Maggie is a healer at heart. It is truly the gift God has placed upon her life and in all three timelines we see this.
As you read you will definitely have opinions about each timeline! I was delighted that she picked the timeline I was rooting for! I can’t divulge any more because I don’t want to give the book away but you have to read it before the next one comes out!
I received this book for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
In this book we travel to three different timelines with Margaret/Meg/Maggie. Same person, three different timelines that were completely full of history. Each timeline gave you a better sense on who she was as a person and the struggles that she had about the possibility of leaving each of those timelines. Maggie is a healer at heart. It is truly the gift God has placed upon her life and in all three timelines we see this.
As you read you will definitely have opinions about each timeline! I was delighted that she picked the timeline I was rooting for! I can’t divulge any more because I don’t want to give the book away but you have to read it before the next one comes out!
I received this book for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
Gabrielle Meyer grew up above a carriage house on a historic estate near the banks of the Mississippi River, imagining real and make-believe stories about the occupants who had lived there. She went on to work for the Minnesota Historical Society and loves writing fiction inspired by real people, places, and events. She currently resides in central Minnesota on the banks of the Mississippi River, not far from where she grew up, with her husband and four children. By day, she’s a busy homeschool mom, and by night she pens fiction and non-fiction filled with hope. Learn more about Gabrielle and her writing by visiting www.gabriellemeyer.com
About the Book
Author: laura Frantz
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
Publisher: Revell
Release Date: January 9, 2024
As 1754 is drawing to a close, tensions between the French and the British on Canada's Acadian shore are reaching a fever pitch. Seamstress Sylvie Galant and her family--French-speaking Acadians wishing to remain neutral--are caught in the middle, their land positioned between two forts flying rival flags. Amid preparations for the celebration of Noël, the talk is of unrest, coming war, and William Blackburn, the British Army Ranger raising havoc across North America's borderlands.
As summer takes hold in 1755 and British ships appear on the horizon, Sylvie encounters Blackburn, who warns her of the coming invasion. Rather than participate in the forced removal of the Acadians from their land, he resigns his commission. But that cannot save Sylvie or her kin. Relocated on a ramshackle ship to Virginia, Sylvie struggles to pick up the pieces of her life. When her path crosses once more with William's, they must work through the complex tangle of their shared, shattered past to navigate the present and forge an enduring future.
As summer takes hold in 1755 and British ships appear on the horizon, Sylvie encounters Blackburn, who warns her of the coming invasion. Rather than participate in the forced removal of the Acadians from their land, he resigns his commission. But that cannot save Sylvie or her kin. Relocated on a ramshackle ship to Virginia, Sylvie struggles to pick up the pieces of her life. When her path crosses once more with William's, they must work through the complex tangle of their shared, shattered past to navigate the present and forge an enduring future.
My Thoughts
Once again Laura transported me to a time in history that I honestly didn't have much knowledge about and I absolutely loved it. It was a hard journey from Canada to Virginia but such beautiful moments of seeing God through the hardships that the characters endured throughout the story.
Sylvie is our main character and I really appreciated that Laura Frantz took time to really give us a great picture of where she is coming from and what her beautiful country of Nova Scotia was like before it was overtaken. I was heart broken with her as her home was taken from her and she is left alone in a ship. At times like this is when your human self asks why did God let this happen? Where is He when all this is happening? but alas everything has a purpose and a reason and He truly is control and you see that throughout the story.
The hardships Sylvie goes through are hard but there is always light at the end. We see her evolve in this story and I would be a horrible book reviewer if I don't mention Will Blackburn the love interest in this story. He is at first an enigma but soon we see that his gentle heart is guided by God and he seeks to champion for the refugees of Acadie and immediately is pulled towards Sylvie. I'll just say there were some great swoon-worthy moments!
Overall I thought this was a great story and if you have read her previous book Heart Adrift then you will see some familiar characters as this timeline goes along with that one as well. If you enjoy Historical Fiction then you may just want to add this one to your lists!
I received a copy of this book for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Sylvie is our main character and I really appreciated that Laura Frantz took time to really give us a great picture of where she is coming from and what her beautiful country of Nova Scotia was like before it was overtaken. I was heart broken with her as her home was taken from her and she is left alone in a ship. At times like this is when your human self asks why did God let this happen? Where is He when all this is happening? but alas everything has a purpose and a reason and He truly is control and you see that throughout the story.
The hardships Sylvie goes through are hard but there is always light at the end. We see her evolve in this story and I would be a horrible book reviewer if I don't mention Will Blackburn the love interest in this story. He is at first an enigma but soon we see that his gentle heart is guided by God and he seeks to champion for the refugees of Acadie and immediately is pulled towards Sylvie. I'll just say there were some great swoon-worthy moments!
Overall I thought this was a great story and if you have read her previous book Heart Adrift then you will see some familiar characters as this timeline goes along with that one as well. If you enjoy Historical Fiction then you may just want to add this one to your lists!
I received a copy of this book for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
About the Book
Author: Amanda Barratt
Genre: Historial Fiction
Publisher: Revell
Release Date: November 7, 2023
On a golden August morning in 1939, sisters Antonina and Helena Dąbrowska send their father off to defend Poland against the looming threat of German invasion. The next day, the first bombs fall on Warsaw, decimating their beloved city and shattering the world of their youth.
When Antonina's beloved Marek is forced behind ghetto walls along with the rest of Warsaw's Jewish population, Antonina turns her worry into action and becomes a key figure in a daring network of women risking their lives to shelter Jewish children. Helena finds herself drawn into the ranks of Poland's secret army, joining the fight to free her homeland from occupation. But the secrets both are forced to keep threaten to tear the sisters apart--and the cost of resistance proves greater than either ever imagined.
Shining a light on the oft-forgotten history of Poland during WWII and inspired by true stories of ordinary individuals who fought to preserve freedom and humanity in the darkest of times, The Warsaw Sisters is a richly rendered portrait of courage, sacrifice, and the resilience of our deepest ties.
When Antonina's beloved Marek is forced behind ghetto walls along with the rest of Warsaw's Jewish population, Antonina turns her worry into action and becomes a key figure in a daring network of women risking their lives to shelter Jewish children. Helena finds herself drawn into the ranks of Poland's secret army, joining the fight to free her homeland from occupation. But the secrets both are forced to keep threaten to tear the sisters apart--and the cost of resistance proves greater than either ever imagined.
Shining a light on the oft-forgotten history of Poland during WWII and inspired by true stories of ordinary individuals who fought to preserve freedom and humanity in the darkest of times, The Warsaw Sisters is a richly rendered portrait of courage, sacrifice, and the resilience of our deepest ties.
My Thoughts
This is definitely not a lighthearted read and although I knew that going in, I didn't anticipate it being quite this heavy. This story will definitely take you to the nitty gritty of WWII Poland and how you see how these characters are trying to just survive the best way they can. I have to admit that it took me a while to get into the book it is not fast paced by any means and there is a lot of details that are going happening and as the story develops. The story is told by the two sisters each with their own point of views and storylines, so it almost felt like you were reading two stories into one.
Antonia and Helena definitely have a surge of growth throughout the story which is on par with what happens when you are in the circumstances of war. Both of them have to make very difficult choices throughout the story and it is truly heart wrenching what they have to deal with. Love made a small appearance but it didn't last very long.
Overall I thought historically the story was perfection, however there were some things that did bother me. I am not sure if a faith thread was supposed to be present in the story but when I grab a book from christian publisher I at least expect it to be there and this one was pretty weak. There were some glimpses and mentions but nothing that held me captive. The worst for me was the closed door scene. So disappointing. Again, not what I am looking for in a "christian" publisher.
These are just my opinions. I think Amanda Barratt is a wonderful author with a passion for what she writes and if you enjoy Historical fiction then you should give her a try.
I received this book for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
Amanda Barratt is the bestselling author of numerous historical novels and novellas including THE WARSAW SISTERS, WITHIN THESE WALLS OF SORROW, and THE WHITE ROSE RESISTS. Her work has been the recipient of the Christy Award and the Carol Award, as well as an Honorable Mention in the Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Awards.
Amanda is passionate about illuminating oft-forgotten facets of history through a fictional narrative. She lives in Michigan and can often be found researching her next novel, catching up on her to-be-read stack, or savoring a slice of her favorite lemon cake.
To connect with Amanda, visit: www.amandabarratt.net
About the Book
Author: Kimberley Woodhouse
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Series: Treasures of the Earth, Book 1
Publisher: Bethany House
Release Date: September 26, 2023
Anna Lakeman has spent her life working alongside her paleontologist father, drawing intricate sketches at every dig. When they find dinosaur bones near their home in Wyoming Territory, they're swiftly caught up in the era known as the Bone Wars. But when her father becomes sick and an old beau, Joshua Ziegler, returns for the summer, Anna's world is upended and the practical, orderly life she has made for herself shatters.
Medical student Joshua Ziegler left his hometown to forget the one woman he truly loved and deeply hurt--Anna Lakeman. But when he returns, time hasn't erased the feelings they've always had for each other. When Joshua's nephew goes missing--just like his sister did years ago--and Anna's job is threatened, tensions mount and dangerous secrets are unburied. How can they keep the perils of the past from threatening their renewed affection?
Medical student Joshua Ziegler left his hometown to forget the one woman he truly loved and deeply hurt--Anna Lakeman. But when he returns, time hasn't erased the feelings they've always had for each other. When Joshua's nephew goes missing--just like his sister did years ago--and Anna's job is threatened, tensions mount and dangerous secrets are unburied. How can they keep the perils of the past from threatening their renewed affection?
My Thoughts
What a great start to this series! From the very start of the book you are captivated and want to know more. While the story does revolve around paleontologist and dinosaur bones there truly is SO much more to this story. The "Secrets Beneath" takes on a whole new different meaning than what you expect as you start getting deeper into the story and I was ALL for it!! This is a page turner for sure.
I can't tell you too much of this story without giving some things away but I can tell you that the characters are well developed, there is a huge mystery thread I was not expecting (I'm talking creepy moments and all!) There was familial love and also romance which you can never go wrong with. I can't forget to say that the faith thread throughout this story of faith and forgiveness.
I honestly don't know how she does it but Kimberley manages to write a mixture of all my favorite genres into one: historical, suspense, mystery and romance all into one book with the perfect dosage of faith being present.
Overall I really enjoyed this story and I can't wait for the next books in the series!!
I received a copy of this book for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
About the Book
Author: Valerie Fraser Luesse
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
Publisher: Revell
Release Date: August 15, 2023
Two Sisters. One Single Event. A Family Changed Forever.
At the turn of the twentieth century, sisters Emmy and Callie Bullock are living a privileged life as the only daughters of a wealthy Alabama cotton farmer when their well-ordered household gets turned upside down by the arrival of Lily McGee. Arrestingly beautiful, Lily quickly--and innocently--draws the wrong kind of attention. Meanwhile, Callie meets a man who offers her the freedom to abandon social constraints and discover her truest self.
After Lily has a baby, Callie witnesses something she was never meant to see--or did she? Her memory is a haze, just an image in her mind of Emmy standing on a darkened riverbank and cradling Lily's missing baby girl. Only when the sisters are separated does the truth slowly come to light through their letters--including a revelation that will shape the rest of Callie's life.
Bestselling author Valerie Fraser Luesse weaves a complex and suspenseful tale dripping with intrigue, romance, and Southern charm.
At the turn of the twentieth century, sisters Emmy and Callie Bullock are living a privileged life as the only daughters of a wealthy Alabama cotton farmer when their well-ordered household gets turned upside down by the arrival of Lily McGee. Arrestingly beautiful, Lily quickly--and innocently--draws the wrong kind of attention. Meanwhile, Callie meets a man who offers her the freedom to abandon social constraints and discover her truest self.
After Lily has a baby, Callie witnesses something she was never meant to see--or did she? Her memory is a haze, just an image in her mind of Emmy standing on a darkened riverbank and cradling Lily's missing baby girl. Only when the sisters are separated does the truth slowly come to light through their letters--including a revelation that will shape the rest of Callie's life.
Bestselling author Valerie Fraser Luesse weaves a complex and suspenseful tale dripping with intrigue, romance, and Southern charm.
My Thoughts
This is my second book by Valerie and I must say that I really enjoy her writing. She brings not only the characters to life but the setting as well. She truly transported me to 1911 Alabama and made me a part of this wonderful cast of characters. This wasn't your typical story it was haunting, beautiful and full of emotions. Immediately we meet Callie and Emmy who are extremely close sisters. They are like night and day but in the best possible way. They definitely compliment each other. Their family is very close knit and I absolutely loved that despite the color of their skin they would do anything for the other family in the story. Race to them had nothing to do with it. They not only helped each other but relied on each other as well.
I'm not going to reveal too much of the story, I think the book blurb gives you enough intrigue to whet your appetite for the book, but I will say that this story is heart tugging filled with grief, heartbreak and love that will keep you turning the pages but along with that came hope, faith and healing.
There are some things that may not sit well with some readers. There is a character that has visions and can sense things. I honestly did not see this as a negative. I know God puts people in our path that he reveals things to but I also understand that is not everyones belief so just so you have a heads up. Also the title may seem as we may be reading an epistolary type of book, at least that is what I thought it would be like before I received the book but the "letters" don't come into play until closer to the end of the book. I can see now how they would relate to the title and how meaningful they were to the characters.
Overall I really enjoyed this story and I can't wait to read more from this author.
I received a copy of this book for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
Valerie Fraser Luesse is an award-winning magazine writer best known for her feature stories and essays in Southern Living, where she is currently a senior travel editor. Her work has been anthologized in the audio collection Southern Voices and in A Glimpse of Heaven, an essay collection featuring works by C. S. Lewis, Randy Alcorn, John Wesley, and others. As a freelance writer and editor, she was the lead writer for Southern Living 50 Years: A Celebration of People, Places, and Culture. Specializing in stories about unique pockets of Southern culture, Luesse has published major pieces on the Gulf Coast, the Mississippi Delta, Louisiana's Acadian Prairie, and the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Her editorial section on Hurricane Katrina recovery in Mississippi and Louisiana won the 2009 Writer of the Year award from the Southeast Tourism Society. Luesse earned her bachelor's degree in English at Auburn University in Auburn, Alabama, and her master's degree in English at Baylor University in Waco, Texas. She grew up in Harpersville, Alabama, a rural community in Shelby County, and now lives in Birmingham.
About the Book
Author: Ann H. Gabhart
Genre: Christian HIstorical Romance
Publisher: Revell
Release Date: May 9, 2023
In 1881, Jacci Reed is only five years old when a man attempts to kidnap her from the steamboat her mother, Irena, works on. Badly wounded during the confrontation, Irena takes Jacci aboard the Kingston Floating Palace, a showboat tied up beside them. There, Jacci's actor grandfather tends to her mother and Jacci gets a first taste of the life she will come to lead.
Fifteen years later, Jacci is an actress aboard the Kingston Floating Palace, and largely contented with her adopted family of actors, singers, and dancers. Especially Gabe, who has always supported her, and the gruff grandfather she has come to know and love. Jacci's mother has been gone for years, but the memory of the altercation that ultimately took her life--and the cryptic things Jacci has overheard about her past--is always there, lurking in the back of her mind.
When someone on the showboat tries to kill Jacci, it's clear her questions demand answers. But secrets have a way of staying in the shadows, and the answers she craves will not come easily. Gabe only hopes they come in time for him and Jacci to have a future together.
Fifteen years later, Jacci is an actress aboard the Kingston Floating Palace, and largely contented with her adopted family of actors, singers, and dancers. Especially Gabe, who has always supported her, and the gruff grandfather she has come to know and love. Jacci's mother has been gone for years, but the memory of the altercation that ultimately took her life--and the cryptic things Jacci has overheard about her past--is always there, lurking in the back of her mind.
When someone on the showboat tries to kill Jacci, it's clear her questions demand answers. But secrets have a way of staying in the shadows, and the answers she craves will not come easily. Gabe only hopes they come in time for him and Jacci to have a future together.
My Thoughts
The gorgeous cover of this book immediately drew me in but sadly the story left me flat. This book is a combination of mystery, historical fiction and has the romance trope of friends to more. Ann Gabhart has a beautiful gift of writing details in the story but I feel like this one had too many where the story felt drawn out and was hard to connect with it. The characters felt a bit lacking and I did not find them relatable so it was hard to follow the story. I think if the story would have moved along a bit more towards the beginning it may have been a better flow to the characters.
I really have enjoyed Ann Gabhart's books in the past so this will not deter me from reading her again but this one definitely fell flat for me. However, I may have been in a reading funk so if you are a fan of Historical Fiction then I suggest you give this one a try.
My Rating: 3 Stars/It was okay
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
Ann H. Gabhart grew up on a farm in Kentucky. At the age of ten, she started dreaming of writing stories others would want to read. That dream has come true as she's published over thirty-five novels. She and her husband have three children married to three beautiful in-law children who have gifted her nine grandchildren. She still lives on a farm not far from where she grew up. She loves playing with her grandkids, walking with her dogs, reading, and, of course, writing. Her Shaker books, set in her fictional Shaker village of Harmony Hill in the 1800's, are popular with readers. The Outsider was a Christian Fiction Book Award Finalist in 2009. Her Heart of Hollyhill books are Small Town, America books set in the 1960's. Angel Sister, a Rosey Corner book set during the Great Depression, was a best-seller and was followed up by two more stories about the Merritt sisters. She keeps her stories in Kentucky and has enjoyed going to the Kentucky Appalachian Mountains for some stories including These Healing Hills and Along a Storied Trail. And if you like mysteries, you can try her Hidden Springs Mysteries published under the author name, A.H. Gabhart. Visit Ann's website http://annhgabhart.com to find out more. There you can sign up for her newsletter where she does giveaways several times a year.
About the Book
Author: Stephenia H. McGee
Genre: Christina Historical Romance
Publisher: Revell
Release Date: May 2, 2023
A surprise inheritance. A cache of family secrets. A choice that will change her life forever.
Lillian Doyle has lived her entire high-society life with her widowed mother, believing her father died long ago. But when news arrives that her estranged father only recently passed away--in jail--Lillian is startled to find that the man has left a business and all of his possessions to her, making her a rather unusual heiress.
When she goes to take possession of her father's house in a backwoods Georgia town, the dilapidated structure is already occupied by another woman who claims it was promised to her son, Jonah. In her attempts to untangle the mess, Lillian will discover not only a family she never knew she had but a family business that is more than meets the eye--and has put a target on her back.
To discover the truth and take hold of the independence she's always dreamed of, she'll have to make friends with adversaries and strangers--especially Jonah, the dusty and unrefined cowboy who has secret aspirations of his own.
Lillian Doyle has lived her entire high-society life with her widowed mother, believing her father died long ago. But when news arrives that her estranged father only recently passed away--in jail--Lillian is startled to find that the man has left a business and all of his possessions to her, making her a rather unusual heiress.
When she goes to take possession of her father's house in a backwoods Georgia town, the dilapidated structure is already occupied by another woman who claims it was promised to her son, Jonah. In her attempts to untangle the mess, Lillian will discover not only a family she never knew she had but a family business that is more than meets the eye--and has put a target on her back.
To discover the truth and take hold of the independence she's always dreamed of, she'll have to make friends with adversaries and strangers--especially Jonah, the dusty and unrefined cowboy who has secret aspirations of his own.
My Thoughts
This was my second book by Stephenia and I really enjoyed it. The Swindler's Daughter definitely had me captivated and I wanted to know more about Lillian and the predicament she finds herself in. We immediately meet her and her mother as she is being read the will from her estranged father. As soon as you meet the mother you will dislike her. She is something else! Goodness I was so glad when Lillian left to find what her father had left her. She definitely needed that time to "grow" up into her own person.
All the characters in this story were entertaining but Jonah's mother was definitely the glue that held the storyline together. Despite her getting on my nerves at times I truly enjoyed her. The love interest Jonah was great but beware this romance is a slow burn. The story truly is about Lillian finding out who she is and what she wants to be.
There is mystery and action throughout the story which keeps you turning those pages! If you enjoy Christian Historical fiction set in Georgia then you will definitely enjoy this one.
My Rating: 4 Stars/ Really Liked it
I received a copy of this book through the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
About the Book
Author: Kathleen Denly
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Series: Chaparral Hearts, Book 4
Publisher: Wild Heart Books
Release Date: May 16, 2023
Gideon Swift, a visually impaired Civil War Veteran, responds to an ad for a ranch cook in the Southern California desert mountains. He wants nothing more than to forget his past and stay in the kitchen where he can do no harm. But when he arrives to find his employer murdered, the ranch turned to ashes, and three young women struggling to survive in the unforgiving Borrego Desert, he must decide whether his presence protects them or places them in greater danger.
Bridget “Biddie” Davidson finally receives word from her older sister who disappeared with their brother and pa eighteen years prior, but the news is not good. Determined to help her family, Biddie sets out for a remote desert ranch with her adopted father and best friend. Nothing she finds there is as she expected, including the man who came to cook for the shambles of a ranch.
When tragedy strikes, the danger threatens not only her plans to help her sister, but her own dreams for the future—with the man who’s stolen her heart.
Bridget “Biddie” Davidson finally receives word from her older sister who disappeared with their brother and pa eighteen years prior, but the news is not good. Determined to help her family, Biddie sets out for a remote desert ranch with her adopted father and best friend. Nothing she finds there is as she expected, including the man who came to cook for the shambles of a ranch.
When tragedy strikes, the danger threatens not only her plans to help her sister, but her own dreams for the future—with the man who’s stolen her heart.
My Thoughts
Murmur in the Mud Caves is Book 4 of the Chaparral Hearts series and while it's great to read the other books in the series this one could be read as a stand alone as the characters from other books don't all make an appearance and those that do it is very minimal. This story is definitely all about Biddie.
Once again Kathleen has developed a story that is rich in California history. I had no clue about mud caves and her descriptions really brought it to reality for me as I could picture them in my mind. Not sure I would ever want to be in them after reading this book though! LOL!!
In this story we follow Biddie as she reconnects with her siblings that she hasn't seen since she was younger. Her sister writes a letter to her requesting monetary help but instead she treks it out to where she is. While doing this trouble arises during the trip and while with her sister. Lucky for us Gideon appears in the scene. He makes the perfect hero in this story but he is definitely not your typical one. He battles with some ailments that have him wondering if he is truly good enough to have a future with Biddie.
The plot of the story is great. It is full of adventure and some mystery. My favorite part of Kathleen's books though is how she weaves faith throughout them. In this one the main point of us being created uniquely by God is what stayed with me. These characters were all different but their one thing that connected them was that God had created them different for purpose and I really enjoyed seeing their growth throughout the story.
Overall I really enjoyed this story and if you enjoy Christian Historical fiction then you will more than likely enjoy this one as well.
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion
About the Author
Sunny California, a favorite setting in her stories, is also her home. She lives there with her loving husband, four young children, two dogs, and ten cats. As a member of the adoption and foster community, children in need are a cause dear to her heart and she finds they make frequent appearances in her stories.
When she isn’t writing, researching, or caring for children, she spends her time reading, visiting historical sites, hiking, and crafting.
Kathleen is also a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and the award-winning author of the Chaparral Hearts series.
Always happy to hear from her readers, you can direct message or email Kathleen and follow her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Social Icons